Whether you’re planning a major renovation or you’re looking for a simpler way to create a whole new look, replacing your current worktops can completely transform your kitchen. Like any other renovation job, there are many different costs involved in getting new worktops. While you may think the cost of the worktops themselves is by far the most significant spending, don’t forget to take the cost of labour into account.
The labour cost to replace worktops can vary widely based on a number of factors, from the region you live in to the worktops themselves. To help you budget for your new kitchen counters, we’ve created a guide on how much it can cost to replace kitchen worktops and which factors can impact this. For those on a budget, we’ve also provided some money-saving tips to cut costs ahead of the installation process.
Article by: Anna Gibson , Product Manager, EGGER UK & Ireland
What is the average labour cost to replace worktops?
The cost of hiring a professional to install your kitchen worktops can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. The price of labour can start from as little as £100 and go up to around £1,500. Using data from MyJobQuote , we’ve calculated that the median labour cost to replace 5m of kitchen worktop is £600, while the mean cost is £725. Based on this data, we have also calculated three price brackets that the labour costs will likely fall into:
- Level 1: Labour costs on the cheapest end of the spectrum fall between £100 and £500.
- Level 2: The cost of a mid-range worktop replacement is typically somewhere between £500 and £1,000.
- Level 3: For premium worktop replacements, which may require specialist tools and techniques, the costs are upwards of £1,000, usually falling somewhere between £1,000 and £1,500.
What impacts kitchen worktop replacement cost?
Material choice
One of the most significant factors that can affect kitchen worktop replacement costs is the material of the worktop. This is because some materials are more complex to install than others and can require specialist tools and techniques.
For example, opting for premium natural materials like granite, quartz, or marble usually leads to higher labour costs as they can be more difficult to cut and install. Wooden countertops tend to have mid-range installation costs, but they can also be very high maintenance in the long term, so it’s worth bearing this in mind.
When it comes to affordability, chipboard is a great option. This material is affordable and can take less time for a professional to cut and install, saving time and money on labour costs.
Worktop edge
The material isn’t the only part of your worktop that impacts installation costs — the type of countertop edge you choose makes a difference too. This is because counters with intricate edges can be more difficult to install, especially if you have a complex kitchen layout which requires countertops to join at the corner. Rest assured that EGGER’s worktops with postformed edges are straightforward for professionals to install, as are our 25mm and 38mm square edge worktops .
Kitchen size and layout
An obvious factor impacting your kitchen worktop replacement cost is the size of your kitchen. The bigger your kitchen is, the more worktops there are to install, which in turn takes more time and costs more money. But another factor you may not have considered is the kitchen layout. Single-wall and galley kitchens are relatively simple to work with, but more complex layouts, such as L-shaped, U-shaped, or G-shaped kitchens, require additional joins and precision cutting, which increases labour time and costs. You also have to account for multiple cutouts for sinks, hobs, and other appliances.
Location
A factor you unfortunately won’t be able to influence when it comes to the labour cost of replacing worktops is where you are in the country. While many assume that London and the South East are the most expensive areas for hiring a tradesperson, Capital On Tap data shows that Glasgow is actually the most expensive place to hire a professional on average. The best way to know you’re getting a good deal in your region is to do plenty of research before choosing a professional and round up quotes to figure out an average.
Choice of tradesperson
A kitchen worktop fitting cost will depend largely on the tradesperson you choose to do the job. Those who specialise in worktop installation, particularly for materials such as stone or marble, tend to charge more than general handymen or carpenters. While you may be tempted to go with the cheapest option available to cut the labour cost of replacing kitchen worktops, you get what you pay for with kitchen fitting. A cheaper tradesperson who makes a mistake can end up costing much more in the long run.
You should also pay close attention to the warranty of your chosen worktops. Here at EGGER, we offer a generous 10-year guarantee on all of our worktops, but only when fitted using EGGERSeal adhesive and in conjunction with our fitting guides. Ensure that your chosen tradesperson has access to our fitting guides and follows each step to the letter to ensure this guarantee.
Extra work
Depending on the current condition of your kitchen, there may be some additional costs involved in getting worktop replacements. One thing you should check is whether your kitchen fitter includes removing worktops as part of their fee. The vast majority do, but it is worth checking with them beforehand on the off chance that they don’t. If you’re planning on repositioning appliances like hobs and sinks, you will also have to factor in plumbing and electrical modifications in your budget.
What is the cost of replacing kitchen doors and worktops in the UK?
If you’re looking for an even bigger change in your kitchen, replacing your doors and worktops together can give the room a whole new look. It will also likely be more cost-effective to get both jobs done at the same time as you won’t have to pay for labour twice.
According to data from MyJobQuote , the labour cost of replacing your kitchen cupboards ranges from £50 for one cupboard, to £730 for 20, with 10 cupboards coming in the middle at an average cost of £375.
How to save money for installing worktop replacements
Whether you’re looking to save money for a wider renovation project or you simply want to make the most of your budget, there are various ways to reduce worktop fitting costs. Here are some key considerations to help you save money on replacement worktops without compromising on durability or style.
Consider worktop material and edge
The type of material you choose can have a significant impact on the price of your project. As already mentioned, chipboard worktops are the most straightforward to work with, whereas natural materials like marble and stone tend to be more complex. Fortunately, there are a variety of stylish chipboard options available on the market which are still incredibly durable but without the hefty price tag. You can also complement the look even further with stylish splashback and edging .
The edge profile of your worktop can have an impact on cost too. Opting for a square or postformed edge rather than an intricate design can help keep costs down. You can find out more about this, as well as the pros and cons of different styles, in our worktop edge profile guide .
Invest in durable worktops
While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, investing in durable worktops can save you money in the long run. Remember, cheaper alternatives may require repairs or replacements sooner and ultimately cost you more over time, so always buy your worktops from a reputable retailer.
Here at EGGER, we produce worktops that perfectly balance budget, style, and durability. Each one is crafted with a heat- and impact-resistant surface, making them strong enough to deal with day-to-day activity in your kitchen.
Find the right fitter
Hiring a skilled yet reasonably priced fitter is crucial to ensuring a smooth installation without unnecessary expenses. A good fitter will also save you money further down the line, as the right installation can help expand the lifespan of your worktops. We’ve put together some tips below on what to look for when finding a worktop fitter.
Consider the time of year
Flexible about when you get a kitchen upgrade? The time of year you get the work done may also reduce the labour cost of replacing worktops. Some fitters offer discounts during quiet periods of the year, such as late autumn or early winter, when demand is lower. Conversely, during busier periods like spring and summer, labour costs may rise due to demand.
Can you replace kitchen worktops yourself?
You may think that a good way to reduce kitchen worktop replacement costs is to install them yourself. While doing so is possible, it requires a significant amount of expertise and skill, especially when dealing with more complex materials or kitchen layouts. People with plenty of DIY experience and the right tools may be able to install some types of worktops themselves, saving on labour costs. However, you will require professional cutting equipment, no matter the worktop material you choose.
Worktop installation involves measuring and cutting the worktops precisely, securing them to base units, and making accurate cut-outs for sinks and hobs. Mistakes can be costly, as errors in cutting may mean you need a new replacement worktop. You should also consider the warranty on your worktops. For example, EGGER’s 10-year guarantee is only valid if you follow the exact steps in our fitting guides (and use EGGERSeal adhesive). If you make a mistake during the installation process, this guarantee will no longer be valid.
We would always recommend hiring a professional to install any type of worktop. While it may be tempting to save money on the cost of hiring a labourer to do the job, it can cost you a lot more in the long term if something goes wrong.
What to look for when finding a worktop fitter?
You should spend time researching the best tradespeople in your area to ensure the lifespan of your new worktops and avoid extra costs from poor installation. The easiest way to do this is to read reviews of the tradespeople in your area to get an idea of who the best ones are. You can do this on various sites online, like TrustATrader , Checkatrade , MyBuilder , and Rated People . You should also ask friends and family in the local area for recommendations, although it’s always best to do your own research on top of this. Checking for relevant qualifications, certifications, or membership in trade associations can also ensure professional standards.
Experience with specific worktop materials is another important factor if you’re going for something more complex. Some fitters specialise in certain types of worktops, such as quartz or marble, which require specific skills. Requesting a portfolio of previous work can help you determine whether a fitter has the necessary expertise.
Before you decide on who you’re going with, get multiple quotes for the work to see who offers the best deal. It is also advisable to ask about the warranties or guarantees offered by the fitter themselves, as reputable tradespeople often provide assurances for their work. Finally, make your own expectations clear before making your final decision, including around timelines and costs, to ensure a smooth installation process.
Now that you have an idea of the labour cost of replacing kitchen worktops, you can prepare your budget and get started on your kitchen transformation. Remember, planning ahead can help you save even more on labour costs, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
At EGGER, we offer a variety of worktops to suit different styles and budgets, including stylish 25mm and 38mm square worktops . Be sure to browse our selection and find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Looking for more advice before choosing your dream worktops? Check out the other guides in our worktop hub , including our worktop edge profiles guide , to help you make informed decisions for your renovation project.
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